Imperfect Lies by Elizabeth Noyes -- When another woman emerges from the past to claim Mallory Cameron's happily ever after, she cuts her losses and sets out to find a headline-worthy story to launch her journalism career. She embarks on a whirlwind journey that takes her across the United States, to the blue-green waters of the Caribbean, on to sunny Mexico, and deep into the dangerous parts of Africa where terror reigns. James Evers turned his back on a life of power and privilege to carve a place in the world for himself. Now that he's finally discovered his niche as a small-town sheriff and found the woman he wants in his future, a past indiscretion struts in on high heels and sends his newfound love fleeing headlong into peril. His mission: neutralize old enemies, defuse new threats, resolve past mistakes, settle family disputes, and—most importantly—find and rescue his woman from terrorists before the unthinkable happens. (Action/Adventure from Write Integrity Press)

Contemporary Romance:

The Bachelor’s Unexpected Family by Lisa Carter -- Young widow Kristina Montgomery moves to Kiptohanock, Virginia, hoping it will give her and her teenage son, Gray, a fresh start. She longs for the peace and quiet only a small town can provide. But her plans are thwarted by her new neighbor, Canyon Collier, a former Coast Guard pilot and a crop duster. Gray is instantly drawn to the pilot and his teenage niece, Jade—and Kristina's not far behind. She and Canyon are soon bonding over parenting their charges and their spark becomes undeniable. Could it be that the spirited pilot is just what Kristina needs to teach her heart to soar again? (Contemporary Romance from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Gift of the Magpie by Zoe M. McCarthy -- Amanda Larrowe’s lack of trust sabotages her relationships. The English teacher and award-winning author of middle-grade adventure books for boys has shut off communication with friends and family to meet her January 2 book deadline. Now, in the deepest snow accumulation Richmond, Virginia, has experienced in years, Camden Lancaster moves in across the street. After ten years, Amanda’s heart still smarts from the humiliating aftermath of their perfect high-school Valentine’s Day date. Camden may have transformed into a handsome, amiable man, but his likeability doesn’t instill trust in Amanda’s heart. When Cam doesn’t recognize her on their first two encounters, she thinks it’s safe to be his fair-weather neighbor. Boy is she wrong. (Contemporary Romance from Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)

A Mother for Leah by Rachel L. Miller --It’s been ten years since Leah Fisher’s mother died in a buggy accident. But when Leah’s father shows interest in Naomi Yoder, Leah isn’t ready for a new mother. Will Leah be able to let go of her own ideas and realize that God truly does know best for her or will she allow love to slip through her fingers, destroying Samuel Fisher and Naomi Yoder's happiness at the same time? (Contemporary from S & G Publishing)

General Contemporary:

Freedom’s Ring by Heidi Chiavaroli -- An antique ring reunites a Boston Marathon bombing survivor with the man who saved her. Together they unearth the two-hundred-year- old history of a woman who suffered tremendous loss in the Boston Massacre, a woman torn between the love of two men – one a patriot, one a Redcoat. (General Contemporary from Tyndale House)

Fresh Faith by Elise Phillips -- Joy Abbott had been trying to start her life over for years -- and failing. Then a letter summoned her to Texas and everything changed. (General Contemporary from Desert Breeze Publishing)

Historical:

Enchanted Isle by Melanie Dobson -- In the spring of 1958, Jenny Winter embarks on a two-month adventure to a quaint village in England’s magical Lake District. With a new camera and an eye for capturing the beauty others miss, she can’t wait to explore the heathery fells and mystical waters. Adrian Kemp, a handsome and enigmatic local, makes the sightseeing even more beguiling. When Adrian shows Jenny his late father’s abandoned dream, a deserted island amusement park, she glimpses a kindred spirit in this reckless, haunted young man. Yet as she opens her heart to Adrian, the two stumble into a mystery leading back a generation to an unforgettable romance and an unsolved murder. As long-held secrets come to light, it’s left to Jenny and Adrian to put the past to rest and restore a lost dream. (Historical from Waterfall Press)

Titus: The Aristocrat by Katheryn Maddox Haddad -- Titus intends to become a famous lawyer in the Roman Empire. Instead, he is sent by Paul to arbitrate between arch enemies in wild Corinth, wilder Crete, and wildest Dalmatia. In each place he suffers. But, long before that, he suffers from guilt over the death of his mother when he was eleven years old. How does Titus survive it all? (Historical from Northern Lights Publishing House)

Historical Romance:

To Wager Her Heart by Tamera Alexander -- With fates bound by a shared tragedy, a reformed gambler from the Colorado Territory and a Southern Belle bent on breaking free from society's expectations must work together to achieve their dreams - provided the truth doesn't tear them apart first. (Historical Romance from Zondervan)

The Promise of Breeze Hill by Pam Hillman -- Anxious for his brothers to join him on the rugged frontier along the Mississippi River, Connor O’Shea has no choice but to indenture himself as a carpenter in exchange for their passage from Ireland. But when he’s sold to Isabella Bartholomew of Breeze Hill Plantation, Connor fears he’ll repeat past mistakes and vows not to be tempted by the lovely lady. The responsibilities of running Breeze Hill have fallen on Isabella’s shoulders after her brother was found dead in the swamps along the Natchez Trace and a suspicious fire devastated their crops, almost destroyed their home, and left her father seriously injured. Even with Connor’s help, Isabella fears she’ll lose her family’s plantation. Despite her growing feelings for the handsome Irish carpenter, she seriously considers accepting her wealthy and influential neighbor’s proposal of marriage. Soon, though, Connor realizes someone is out to eliminate the Bartholomew family. Can he set aside his own feelings to keep Isabella safe? (Historical Romance from Tyndale House)

Romantic Suspense:

Chasing Secrets by Lynette Eason -- When a photo leads investigators in West Ireland to open a twenty-five-year-old cold case, Elite Guardians bodyguard Haley Callaghan's life is suddenly in danger. Haley knows how to take care of herself; after all, she's made a career out of taking care of others. But after she has an uncomfortably close call, Detective Steven Rothwell takes it upon himself to stay with her--and the young client she has taken under her wing. A protector at heart, he's not about to let Haley fight this battle alone. In a sweeping plot that takes them into long-buried memories--and the depths of the heart--Haley and Steven will have to solve the mystery of Haley's past while dodging bullets, bombs, and bad guys who just won't quit. (Romantic Suspense from Revell [Baker])

Plain Retribution by Dana R. Lynn -- Ten years ago while on rumspringa, Rebecca Miller and her friends were kidnapped and held captive…and now, living in the English world, she's nearly abducted again. One by one her friends who once helped send their abductor to jail are targeted, and she is next…unless police officer Miles Olsen can stop a killer. Deaf since birth, the only person on the force that Rebecca can communicate with is Miles, and he needs this case to redeem himself of past mistakes. When the relentless killer tracks them deep into the heart of Amish country, protecting Rebecca must be Miles's sole focus. Because a mistake this time will cost something worth more to him than his job—the woman he's falling for. (Romantic Suspense from Love Inspired [Harlequin])

Cold Blooded by Anne Patrick -- Detective Gwen Jamison has the highest closure rate in her division, but a string of armed robberies is about to take over her life. Not only will her job be on the line, but the troubling case also wreaks havoc on her personal life. Lieutenant Ian McKean knew he would have his hands full when he took over leadership of the detectives unit. He wasn't prepared for the headstrong Detective Jamison, though, who quickly becomes a thorn in his side. If they can stop butting heads long enough they might realize they are more alike than either imagined. (Romantic Suspense from Anne Patrick)

*All authors whose books are included on the ACFW New Releases list attest that their book meets CBA standards for clean, Christian content. The posting of this list on the Sweet South Blog is not a review or an endorsement of any book on the list.***Last week's giveaway winner of a Kindle copy of The Captive Heart by Michelle Griep is Joy (Books Are A Blessing)! Congrats! I'll be in touch with you soon!

Monday, August 21, 2017

Back Cover Copy:Place an unpolished lawman named Nicholas Brentwood as guardian over a
spoiled, pompous beauty named Emily Payne and what do you get? More
trouble than Brentwood bargains for. She is determined to find a husband
this season. He just wants the large fee her father will pay him to
help his ailing sister. After a series of dire mishaps, both their
desires are thwarted, but each discovers that no matter what, God is in
charge.

The Why:

The reason I first picked up this book is because I'd heard of the "Bow Street Runners" and thought the occupation must be terribly thrilling and interesting to read about. So when I learned Michelle Griep (fellow author in the Of Rags and Riches Collection) had written a story about one, well I just had to read it.

The Main Characters:

Intriguing, entertaining, gritty, unique, mysterious... These terms best describe this tale--and it's hero--for me. Nathan Brentwood puts me in mind of Lawrence of Arabia, perhaps in his back story at least. The heroine is a well-portrayed reflection of the times, garnering more interest with every page. I was quite attached to both by the time the book ended.

The Secondary Characters:

I sort of fell in love with secondary character Alexander Moore and just found out he has his own book coming soon called The Inkeeper's Daughter! Huzzah!

The Author's Particular Talent:

Michelle is incredible at writing plot twists, action sequences, and sense-igniting phrases. Her word-smithing carves a path that you're mind must follow until you no longer are reading about the character--you are the character.

The Stakes:

The constant threat of death cried out from every page, whether the death of a career, one's innocence, a friend, or a love interest, and kept me leafing through into the small morning hours.

Overall:

While a tad grittier than some CBA historicals (a near-rape scene comes to mind), the story brings to life so much history of the time and location. The characters were unlike any others I had read, and the thrill of the chase made this story shine. I wished for a little more of the heroine's faith-journey at the end, but very much admired the hero as he struggled yet relied on God no matter the circumstances.

The More Factor:

Definitely wanting to read more mysteries and historicals from this author's pen.

*GIVEAWAY:I'm giving away a Kindle copy of Michelle's The Captive Heart, pictured below. To enter, comment with your email (in AT/DOTcom format). OR email me at natalieATnataliemonkDOTcom if you have trouble commenting on the page. For extra entries paste an URL where you've shared this giveaway on social media. Giveaway ends noon CST Sunday, August 27, 2017.

Back Cover Copy:On the run from a brute of an aristocratic employer, Eleanor Morgan
escapes from England to America, the land of the free, for the
opportunity to serve an upstanding Charles Town family. But freedom is
hard to come by as an indentured servant, and downright impossible when
she’s forced to agree to an even harsher contract—marriage to a man
she’s never met.

Backwoodsman Samuel Heath doesn’t care what
others think of him—but his young daughter’s upbringing matters very
much. The life of a trapper in the Carolina backcountry is no life for a
small girl, but neither is abandoning his child to another family. He
decides it’s time to marry again, but that proves to be an impossible
task. Who wants to wed a murderer?

Both Samuel and Eleanor are
survivors, facing down the threat of war, betrayal, and divided
loyalties that could cost them everything, but this time they must face
their biggest challenge ever . . .Love.

Comment Fodder:
Have you read any of Michelle Griep's books or is this author new to you?
If you have read Michelle's books, do you have a favorite?

***Winner of a paperback copy of Of Rags and Riches Romance Collection is Wendy Newcomb. Winner of Stealing Jake by Pam Hillman is Marisa Laudadio. Winner of the 35 Book Christian Romance "Book Your Summer Vacation" giveaway is Shannon Capelle. Congrats, winners!

Saturday, August 12, 2017

Lots of giveaways going on here on the blog right now, and I'm adding a new one (recap on the other two at the end of this post)! But in the giveaway below, you could win THIRTY-FIVE BOOKS AT ONCE, including Of Rags and Riches Romance Collection.

Monday, August 7, 2017

From the Back Cover:
Anxious for his brothers to join him on the rugged frontier along the Mississippi River, Connor O’Shea has no choice but to indenture himself as a carpenter in exchange for their passage from Ireland. But when he’s sold to Isabella Bartholomew of Breeze Hill Plantation, Connor fears he’ll repeat past mistakes and vows not to be tempted by the lovely lady.
The responsibilities of running Breeze Hill have fallen on Isabella’s shoulders after her brother was found dead in the swamps along the Natchez Trace and a suspicious fire devastated their crops, almost destroyed their home, and left her father seriously injured. Even with Connor’s help, Isabella fears she’ll lose her family’s plantation. Despite her growing feelings for the handsome Irish carpenter, she seriously considers accepting her wealthy and influential neighbor’s proposal of marriage.
Soon, though, Connor realizes someone is out to eliminate the Bartholomew family. Can he set aside his own feelings to keep Isabella safe?

They both dearly love their families and put their heart and soul into pursuing their goals.

Secondary characters in this novel are memorable as well! Many unique and vivid portraits of Southern folk. This heroine has a mystery tied to her mother, which was intriguing. And I found it interesting to watch her grow from an impetuous young girl into her role of perceptive woman-of-the-house.

Setting
Fascinating history. Life and times of Mississippians at the end of the 18th century. This was before statehood, so when the men gathered on the porch to drink lemonade, they spoke of the territory and governor and banded together as property owners to deal with the issues facing them and their loved ones. I also found interesting the mentions of Irish slaves and their role during this time period.

Romance
From the moment Connor and Isabella meet at the auction block, he is so wounded and guilt-ridden and defensive, but matures through his love for the heroine and his realization that his perceptions from his past life are wrong. Connor has had a previous, hurtful relationship, but Isabella is quite innocent about men. About many things, as she has been sheltered and well-guarded in her plantation home and social circles. Though Connor has been ill-treated by a woman, gives care to be respectful and gentle with Isabella, no matter how little he trusts her. As their feelings grow, their relationship develops tenderly, showcasing Connor's protective instincts.

Pace

Well-paced, flowing, and varied. Thoughtful at times and action packed at others. Goes perfectly with lemonade and porch swings!

Stakes
The danger of highwaymen along the Natchez Trace and specifically the Devil’s Backbone were historical bits I’d never heard of until reading Pam’s blogs about her research for this book. An eye-opening subject since sometimes we, at least I, tend to think of the Natchez Trace as a peaceful, scenic joyride. Not so during the 18th century. I'm glad for books like these that bring out the struggles of those in prior centuries, familiar struggles that I can relate to and learn from.

Overall Impression
The history fascinates, characters made me care about them, and I can’t wait to see what happens to the other Connor brothers!

GIVEAWAY
I'm giving away a Kindle copy of Pam Hillman's STEALING JAKE, pictured below, celebrating one of my favorite stories from Pam's back-list. To enter, leave your email in a AT/DOT format. OR email me at natalieATnataliemonkDOTcom if you have trouble commenting. For extra entries, sign up for my/Pam's newsletter and/or post an URL in the comments where you've shared this giveaway on social media. Giveaway ends 8pm CST August 14, 2017.

Back cover copy:When Livy O’Brien spies a young boy jostling a man walking along the boardwalk, she recognizes the act for what it is. After all, she used to be known as Light-fingered Livy. But that was before she put her past behind her and moved to the growing town of Chestnut, Illinois, where she’s helping to run an orphanage. Now she’ll do almost anything to protect the street kids like herself.Sheriff’s deputy Jake Russell had no idea what he was in for when he ran into Livy—literally—while chasing down a pickpocket. With a rash of robberies and a growing number of street kids in town—as well as a loan on the family farm that needs to be paid off—Jake doesn’t have time to pursue a girl. Still, he can’t seem to get Livy out of his mind. He wants to get to know her better . . . but Livy isn’t willing to trust any man, especially not a lawman.

Comment Fodder:
Have you read Pam Hillman's books before? If so, do you have a favorite?

Saturday, August 5, 2017

My agent emailed me last night with some news, and I liked to have jumped out of my seat! If you're Southern, you'll know what I'm saying here. She forwarded the link to August 2017's ECPA Bestsellers List and told me to check out #16. I was FLOORED. (Another Southern phrase? I'm not sure.)

Someone was on the phone in the room with me, so I couldn't jump up and squeal and do a Scooby Doo dance like I wanted. So I held my breath a few seconds, ran and found my mom in the other room and told her, then my sister and Dad. What a fun surprise!

Congrats to all my sister-authors in this Collection! Getting this news felt like a God-hug to me, and just knowing He is in control means so much.

While
you're here, have a slice of cake! We have chocolate, caramel,
birthday, red velvet, German chocolate, orange slice, coconut,
strawberry, Italian creme, and a good Southern favorite, hummingbird
cake. (Anyone know where that name came from?)

I want
let you in on the celebrating, so I'm giving away a paperback copy of Of Rags and Riches Romance Collection! Winner will be announced August 14, 2017. Comment with your email to enter.
(Remember, to avoid spammers, separate your email into pieces or use the
emailaddressATserverDOTcom format.)

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For Richer or Poorer (Barbour Publishing, July 2017)

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Natalie Monk writes award-winning and ECPA bestselling historical romance. She is currently brainstorming her sixth writing project. She is a member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency.
A country girl from the time she could shimmy under a string of barbed wire, Natalie makes her home in North Mississippi. She proudly wears the label “preacher’s kid,” is a homeschool graduate, a nonpracticing certified wedding planner, and a former fence post digger. She loves sweet tea, girl talk (usually about books), porch swings, and watching old movies with her family. Her goal in writing, and in living, is to bring glory to her Savior, Jesus Christ.